Weighing in on Trayvon

Aug. 1, 2013

To the Editor:

Mr. Gullang mostly had me until the last paragraph in his letter to the editor (“Move along,” July 23).

So I reread the transcript of President Obama’s statement and nowhere did I see a call to retry or investigate George Zimmerman. In his remarks, which were well received by many conservative as well as liberal pundits, he called for an understanding of many African-Americans’ feelings on our system of justice. Obama also called for action in regard to stand-your-ground laws.

Zimmerman was found not guilty, and reasonable doubt seemed to have been established. Of course, this was made easier by the fact that the prosecution’s best witness was dead at the defendant’s hand. Many who agree with the verdict don’t think Zimmerman is innocent.

Mr. Mengarelli (“A larger issue,” July 23) paints with a wide brush. If what he believes of all African-American youth is true, it is true for all youth in America. Trayvon Martin was walking in a neighborhood that he had every right to be in, going to be with his father. Maybe his father was his positive role model, as mine is for me. What reaction would have saved Trayvon? Leave the area? Was he being pursued by Zimmerman? Does he have a right to stand his ground? Is it survival of the fittest?

During the trial, it seemed there was much evidence that Zimmerman could’ve avoided the situation. As for Trayvon, we don’t know what he thought or did because he’s dead, and witness accounts differ.

Jim Proctor

Woodstock

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